If you’re heading to the bush or any remote area in Australia, New Zealand, US or Europe this year then HMD has you covered should there be an emergency. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be remote given how bad cell coverage can be near cities.
HMD OffGrid is a small tag that connects wirelessly to your iOS or Android phone to enable messages via satellite. It provides 24/7 search & rescue and real-time location sharing. It launches in Australia next month for A$329 via Amazon.
“HMD OffGrid is a new, affordable, portable and easy-to-use offering that’s both empowering and reliable – especially when it matters the most,” said Jean-Francis Baril, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO, at Human Mobile Devices.
“We’re proud to continue innovating products that prioritise human connection whilst still allowing people to switch-off. So, whether you’re hiking in the mountains or skiing off-piste, HMD OffGrid ensures you’re never truly off grid.”
HMD OffGrid has a three-day battery life and MIL-STD-810H military grade-durability. The device weighs just 60 grams and easily fits in the palm of your hand. Using the OffGrid app travellers can communicate via two-way messaging and live location tracking for up to five recipients. It also has a ‘check in’ feature, allowing you to send a pre-configured message to friends and family in just a click of a dedicated button. It uses the L Band satellite radio spectrum powered by Viasat.
HMD OffGrid also comes with Overwatch x Rescue™, the premium SOS service by FocusPoint International that includes 24/7 multi-lingual emergency response coordination and fully funded assistance for customers that live, work, and play off the grid.
You will need to subscribe to use the service.
● HMD Unlimited Plan: A$24.99 a month or A$239.99 annually for unlimited messages and check-in, SOS services (one-time activation fee of A$13.99). Optional live tracking for A$6.99 a month.
● HMD Freedom Plan: A$112.99 a year (one-time payment) with 350 text messages, unlimited check-ins and live tracking (one-time activation fee of A$27.99).
